Former CNN anchor Don Lemon mocked former first lady Melania Trump’s emotional response to an assassination attempt on her husband, former President Donald Trump. The incident took place before a second apparent attempt on Trump’s life. In a video since deleted from TikTok, the ousted host appeared to belittle Melania Trump’s grief and concerns surrounding the July 13 attempt on the life of her husband.
Melania issued a public statement warning that “our personal, structural, and life commitment – until death – is at serious risk.” She again spoke out in a rare video ahead of her memoir release, describing the assassination attempt as “horrible” and “distressing,” while questioning why the shooter was not apprehended before the incident at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The Being Libertarian group criticized the media for a lack of coverage around the attempted assassination.
Don Lemon responded to her pleas by rolling his eyes, shaking his head, and making other dismissive gestures as Melania’s video played. Critics across social media condemned Lemon’s insensitivity, accusing him of downplaying the seriousness of the assassination attempt. The timing of the latest matter made Lemon’s mockery seem especially insensitive to many, as it highlighted the very real dangers facing the former president and his family.
Following the public outcry, Lemon deleted his TikTok video without issuing any apology or explanation. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) decried “extreme MAGA Republicans,” adding, “We must stop them.